I had a "scheduled" c/s with Ned after an emergency c/s with Alex due to p/e. Even though it was technicall a "scheduled" c/s, I wasn't given any other option, as my BP was creeping up again and my cervix was so high they could hardly feel it, let alone get a finger in to determine any dilation (I've never dilated anyway so wouldn't know what it was!)

I had 12 hours notice that I was having a "scheduled" c/s, so I did have a little time to prepare.

Personally, I felt that the recovery was easier because I knew what to expect. I also had a baby who was with me, rather than in the NICU, so that was also better. I knew about BF so was more comfortable with that.

However, I developed a fairly severe infection on Day 3 and don't really remember much of it. I had a temp of over 40 and was on high doses of some fairly spectacular antibiotics and anti-viral medication. I had to have blood tests every six hours to make sure the medications weren't affecting my kidneys.

With both c/s, I had the local anaesthetic before the spinal tap. I was far more nervous with my first than with my second. I didn't feel much pulling or tugging, and didn't vomit with either. The first c/s was definitely quicker than the second because they needed to get Alex out, and also because it was evening and I think they all wanted to go home.

The second c/s was in the morning (9:30am) so I felt better about that.

I also didn't get out of bed until the next day, so had 24 hours in bed rather than 12, and I really felt that doing that helped my pain threshold. I was in SO MUCH pain getting out of bed after Alex, and not so much after Ned.

I also asked the anaesthetist for laxatives with Ned, because I had an anal fissure after Alex which took ages to heal (like months). So I had them from day dot, and that was great, because I didn't have any problems with no 2s. The anaesthetist thought I was a little silly, but once I explained the problem there was no issue.

I also was more aware of my pain threshold during recovery with my second c/s, and took the drugs more regularly. With Alex, I was more concerned about him than myself (obviously because he was in NICU/SCN), whereas I was more relaxed with Ned because he was with me and I didn't have to get up all the time to go to the NICU/SCN. I think the more relaxed I was, the better I felt.

So that's my story.